Arthur Hughes is the first disabled actor to play Richard III for the Royal Shakespeare Company.
The 30-year-old was born with radial dysplasia, which causes his right arm to be shorter.
Even though King Richard is one of the most well-known disabled characters in English literature, Arthur’s casting has made history.
Arthur told about his decision to assume the position: “I’ve always wanted to play Richard, ever since I learned who William Shakespeare was. A voice within me has informed me that you will one day play him.”
Richard has been portrayed by a multitude of legendary actors, including Sir Laurence Olivier, Sir Alec Guinness, and Al Pacino.
Shakespeare used Richard III’s scoliosis and expanded upon it as a literary device to portray Richard’s unpleasant character.
Despite his disability, able-bodied actors have frequently portrayed Richard.
Regarding the casting of Arthur as Richard, director Gregory Doran remarked: “The infamous description of Richard III as a “poisonous hunchbacked toad” is hurled at someone who has personal experience with prejudice.
“I cast Arthur not because he is a disabled actor, but because he is an outstanding actor.”
Arthur elaborated by stating that these experiences are “built into you.” He contemplated that “My body is shaped as it is, and placing it on a stage conveys a message.
“I have experienced being overlooked, undervalued, and the feeling of being excluded from something. I am not required to manufacture it.”
Even though the portrayal of disabled characters on stage and screen has improved in recent years, the actor believes that there is still room for improvement.
“Regarding disability and inclusion, I do not believe we are where we ought to be. I am honored to be the first Richard with a disability at the Royal Shakespeare Company “he said.
“I am proud of my disability because it propels me forward rather than holds me back.”
